The Wanderscribe‘s Curtis Engler is this month’s Blogger of the Month and he invites everyone to check out his blog and become part of his crazy adventures!
“The best reason to check it out right now is because it is so new and still growing,” said Engler. “Readers can be a part of my adventure in real time from the very start, sharing the moments with me instead of reading a lot of it after the fact. I appreciate input and outside creativity also, so now is a really good chance for them to be a part of the creative process as well.”
Being fairly new to the travel blogging world, Engler said his biggest struggle “is trying to be authentic.” He works hard to be different from other travel bloggers on the world wide web.
“The world is shrinking more every day and there are so many great travel bloggers out there, but I am really trying to bring something new to the table,” he said.
For the full interview with Curtis Engler from The Wanderscribe, continue reading below.
1. Tell us something about yourself not many people know about you?
I may not look “the type” but I’m actually a huge Jazz and Blues fan. If the soul needs work, those two genres can get the job done!
2. What is your blog called and what sets it apart from other travel blogs?
My blog is called The Wanderscribe. I guess what really sets me apart is that the writing extends beyond the website and social media. I’m a freelance writer, as well as an avid personal writer, and I just kind of thought the name was fitting as it all builds up for a novel. At this time I’m still really digging for a unique niche, but I believe that will evolve organically over time.
3. Why should people check out your travel blog?
The best reason to check it out right now is because it’s so new and still growing! Readers can be a part of the adventure in real time from the very start, sharing the moments with me instead of reading a lot of it after the fact. I appreciate input and outside creativity also, so now is a really good chance for them to be a part of the creative process as well.
4. How long have you been blogging?
Unofficially forever haha, but The Wanderscribe made its debut in May 2015.
5. Why did you decide you want to be a travel blogger?
I’ve had gypsy feet since I was a kid, so naturally I love travel and being on the road and I also love to write. Combining the two and turning into something just made sense.
6. What is the hardest part about being a travel blogger?
The hardest part for me right now is trying to be authentic. The world is shrinking more every day and there’s so many great travel bloggers out there, but I’m really trying to bring something new to the table.
7. And what is the best part about being a travel blogger?
I love meeting people and networking. I’m hungry for knowledge and as I’ll always be trying to learn and improve, working with other bloggers and the readers is invaluable to me.
8. What are the top three things you always bring with you in your travels?
A laptop, lots of socks and underwear, and Maurice my travel monkey. I’ve forgotten him a couple times (sorry, buddy) but more often than not he’s always in a pocket or a bag or something. He’s seen almost as much of the world as I have.
9. What is the craziest thing you’ve done while travelling?
As of right now, probably my impromptu rock climbing adventure. I’d never been before. I could barely climb a step ladder a few years ago, and a couple guys I met while living in a small village in Ireland were climbers and left some gear hanging out the side of a cliff face the day before. They asked me if I wanted to gear up and try and get the stuff out, so without thinking I said okay and got most of it out. I was in jeans and running shoes that were very unsuitable; no helmet or nothing. Not the smartest way to start learning to climb, but definitely the craziest.
10. Do you have another travel blogger you get inspiration from? Who is it and what is the name of their blog? How does this person inspire you?
I pull inspiration from a number of bloggers, but the big one I guess would be Nomadic Matt. He’s so incredibly successful and really dialed in to his niche and his readers, with so many great articles and experiences. Great writer also! The guys a legend and I’m a huge fan.
11. Share to us your favourite travel hack?
Socks, socks, and more socks! I just can’t stress that enough. If you’re on the move a lot and may not have access to a washing facility you burn through socks fast, especially if you’re wearing heavier boots. Don’t get caught without a pair, you’ll regret it. I promise.
12. Where was your last travel destination? Tell us all about it!
My last destination was Ireland, but I’ll definitely be back. I definitely have unfinished business there.
You can find Curtis Engler on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Linkedin, Tumblr, and Pinterest.
All photos (except for the first one) in this post are provided by Engler.